Clara Louise Marble Wilson

“SPECIAL” is a word that is used to describe someone who is one of a kind, like a hug spreading love with a smile and twinkle in the eye. Clara Louise Wilson, our precious Mother, rose into the arms of Jesus, leaving us with memories that can never be forgotten. She is deserving of the word “SPECIAL” because of her kind heart and love for others.

She was born to Ralph and Ida Marble and raised a farm girl in the state of Nebraska. She never forgot her roots and often spoke of her parents, sisters, Grace and Ella, and the joy and struggles of farm life. After normal school she taught in a one room school house riding her horse to work every day. During the war she and her family moved to the LA area where she worked at Douglas Aircraft. The love of her life Ken Wilson went into the Army serving in the Pacific. Upon his return, they began a life together in the San Joaquin Valley. They made their home in Hanford, CA, living in the same house for over 50 years. There they raised two daughters and enjoyed life in the “little country town”.

Clara was a very active participant in her girl’s lives. She was a Brownie and Girl Scout leader for many years, filling her garage with hundreds of Girl Scout cookies each year. She was named “Volunteer of the Year” for the PTA. She cherished all the times she met with people over her great pies and cakes to plan activities for the schools.

She was a beautiful seamstress, always making sure that her daughters had the perfect dress for any occasion. Her quilting won prizes at the county fair and her blankets will always be treasured by her children. She made floral arrangements for the Nazarene Church every Sunday for years. Dad would pick the flowers from their beautiful gardens and she would create a lovely presentation for the Sunday service. She was a master of her arts.

She leaves her family with wonderful memories and joins Ken and many family members for a joyous reunion. She leaves behind two daughters, Connie Oliver, her husband Gerald, and Sandy Doyle, her husband Jim. The “apple of her eye” were her grandchildren. I can still see her looking through the tiny glass window in the hospital gazing at Kim and Monica unexpected twins of Sandy and Jim. Later they welcomed Allison to the family. Gerald and Connie had a son Jeffrey.

Later came the gorgeous great grandchildren. The first was Will born to Monica and Bill Ackerman. He had a special bond with GG, bringing that grin to her face when he kissed her on the neck. Then came four more born to Ali and Matt Hashim. Matthew, Morgan, Mason and Hunter added such joy to her life as we talked of all the funny things they were doing. Jeff and Tricia added two boys, Owen and Liam. They too were loved by GG and were treasured in her heart. She also had many wonderful visits from Kim and Buzz. They would arrive with wonderful “sweets” for Grandma.

A very special thank you to the extraordinary professionals at Carrington Pointe in Fresno. We will be forever grateful for your kindness and your “helping hands” during Mom’s stay. She felt she was at home with you. A special thanks to Hines Hospice who was faithful to the end. There are too many to name personally, but you all are simply precious to all of our family.

Please join us for a graveside service at Hanford Cemetery Saturday October 4th at 10:00 am.

Donations may be sent to International Development Institute for support of refugees. POB 627, Acampo CA 95220.

Family and Friends may visit www.peoplesfuneralchapel.com to send flowers and condolences to the family.